The St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva, Fiji’s sole psychiatric facility, is experiencing an increased demand for services, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure enhancements. Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu noted that the hospital, established in 1884, is one of the country’s oldest medical institutions.
Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that the growing number of patients across all age groups is significantly straining the hospital’s infrastructure. He remarked that the facility has faced various climatic and operational challenges, resulting in extensive wear and tear on its current structures.
To address these issues, the ministry has sought support from a partner and donor organization to explore the establishment of a new facility. This would enable St Giles Hospital to implement modern treatment techniques, enhancing mental health services nationwide.
The proposed new facility aims to expand the hospital’s capabilities in addiction treatment, general psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry. It will also facilitate specialized services like group therapy, psychodrama, lithium level testing, recurrent transcranial magnetic stimulation, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
The government remains dedicated to improving mental health services in the country. Dr. Lalabalavu pointed out that while St Giles can manage acute cases, there remains a gap in the treatment of substance abuse and the support provided afterward. The ministry is working with development partners to enhance long-term assistance for substance abuse treatment and overall mental health care.